Internet services have been fully restored in Azad Jammu and Kashmir’s Neelum and Haveli Kahuta districts as part of a phased restoration plan announced by the AJK government.
According to a notification issued by the AJK Home Department, residents of Neelum district in the Muzaffarabad Division and Haveli Kahuta district now have access to full internet connectivity. The move follows the newly elected AJK government’s commitment to restore internet services across the region.
The restoration marks an important step toward bringing digital connectivity back to communities that had faced prolonged restrictions. Internet access is particularly important for students, businesses, financial services and residents who rely on online communication.
The government has adopted a phased approach for other districts. DSL services have been restored in Mirpur and Bhimber, while services in Jehlum Valley, Bagh, Dhirkot and Kotli remain limited primarily to educational institutions and banks.
According to the notification, educational institutions and banks seeking internet access in restricted areas will receive whitelisted DSL connections. Heads of these institutions will be required to submit affidavits assuring authorities that the facilities will not be used for activities deemed contrary to national security.
However, internet services remain suspended in Rawalakot and Sudhanoti districts of the Poonch Division under the current restoration plan.
The latest development follows an earlier announcement by AJK Prime Minister Iftikhar Gilani that internet connectivity would be restored across the valley within days. The phased restoration is expected to continue as authorities assess security conditions and network requirements in the remaining areas.
The restoration in Neelum and Haveli Kahuta is being viewed as a significant relief for residents and local businesses after weeks of restricted connectivity.